SIII SWB Ute?

[debruiser]

I was talking to a guy yesterday who said he had a Series 3 1979, SWB in a trayback ute! I guess it's not impossible.... Series' being as mechano as they are, but has anyone seen one?

I'm interested in seeing it... So I'm going for a drive this arvo to see.... Will try to get some photos to share. Might buy it as a resto/something to do down the track project.

[mick88]

One here on Trademe NZ
Listing #: 585427742

Land Rover Series 3 +free mtr 1970 | Trade Me (http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/land-rover/auction-585427742.htm)


Cheers, Mick.

[debruiser]

Thanks Mick.

it sorta looks cool.... ish... Was this an option from the factory? It'd be pretty fun little toy for camping - be easy to put gear "in". What issues do you think ti would create, if any?

[JDNSW]

As far as I know they wee not a factory option, but conversions were not all that uncommon in the heyday of Series Landrovers, although by Series 3 time most working Landrovers in Australia were lwb, usually with a trayback.

The main issue is that the load is going to be well behind the rear wheels, which will not help either handling or ride, if you carry a significant load. The front of the load area with a trayback is going to be about 30cm further back - which does not sound like much, but will put it just about over the axle. Remember that the original tub floor gains length by both the slope on the bulkhead behind the seats and by the overhang of the cab on the swb.

John

[Bigbjorn]

We sold a few at Leyland Truck and Bus. Done by Pressed Metal but had to be ordered, not built as stock.

[debruiser]

Good point about the weight distribution John.

I wouldn't think i would carry much weight in it though..... (famous last words :P )

I will see what it looks like when I get out there later... might have wasted money on the trailer hire yet :( (it's a 1/2hr+ drive out of town)

[isuzutoo-eh]

I reckon they look great, even more caricatured than a shorty Series with a truck cab already is!

Would make for a great tuff-tripper too :)

[FenianEel]

This was one my old Series 3's

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2013/05/1459.jpg

[isuzutoo-eh]

Mr Eel, isn't that a long wheel base?

[debruiser]

Well I'm standing in this guys front yard waiting for him to show up. The 2 lr in the yard are 109s. :( Bugger. I've already hired the trailer. I wanted a Shorty! What to do.... Here he comes

[FenianEel]

Mr Eel, isn't that a long wheel base?

Oops wrong photo.